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New toy shop has old-fashioned twist

Special to East Montgomery
Published 10:16 p.m. CT April 14, 2015

Buy Photo

A to Z Toys at EastChase in Montgomery features old-fashioned and educational toys. A play castle resides in the shop, which is now open for business.(Photo: Mickey Welsh/Montgomery Advertiser)Buy Photo

A-Z Toys is now open in EastChase offering old-fashioned, traditional toys, along with educational items, said Ryan Wales, co-owner of the business.

"A-Z offers a unique shopping experience," Wales said, adding that the store has newly-released pieces to help spark the imagination of a child.

A-Z Toys is located in the old Ann Taylor shop between Banana Republic and Williams-Sonoma. The business is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sunday from 1-6 p.m.

He said A-Z Toys is determined to make a distinction in the River Region with its commitment to customer service.

"We differ from many other stores that sell toys in that we are there to help the customers," he said. "From helping a customer pick out a birthday item for someone special, to offering complimentary gift wrap. If customers call ahead and give us a price they would like to spend, we will even pick something out and have it wrapped when they arrive so they can be in and out and on their way if they are in a hurry."

He said new shoppers are often surprised to see the castle located in the center of the store. The regular customers know it well, and many children come just to play on it as a reward, he said.

"That gives the parents time to wander through the store and see what catches their eye," Wales said.

The castle has traditionally been a spot for pictures as well, he said.

A-Z Toys, previously known as Kazoo Toys, recently moved to the Shoppes at EastChase and opened last month. The store includes a 2,500 square foot showroom complete with toys and gift items for all ages.

The selection includes games, puzzles, dolls, baby items, science and art kits, dress up/role play costumes, collectibles and more, but no video games.

"We want to encourage children of all ages to use their imagination and be actively doing something," Wales said.

A-Z Toys also hosts Abracadoodle Art Classes weekly and can be booked as a site for birthday parties. The store can be reached at 356-9648.